Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), known by its International Nonproprietary Name (INN) Hypromellose, is a non-ionic cellulose ether that is semi-synthetic and inactive. This viscoelastic polymer finds extensive applications across various sectors, including construction, food production, and pharmaceuticals, among others.

Chemical Properties:

Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) is a propylene glycol ether derivative of methylcellulose, with hydroxypropyl and methyl groups attached to the anhydrous glucose rings via ether bonds.

 It appears as a white or off-white powder or granules. HPMC is available in various grades, each with different ratios of methoxyl and hydroxyl groups. 

This substance is soluble in water and some organic solvents but insoluble in ethanol. When dissolved in water, it exhibits surface-active properties, forms a film upon drying, and undergoes a reversible transition from a sol to a gel when heated and then cooled.

Main Use

1. Construction Sector: Utilized as a water-retaining agent and retarder in cement mortar, facilitating pumpability. In plastering applications, it serves as an adhesive for gypsum, putty powder, and other construction materials, enhancing the application process and prolonging working time. It is also employed for adhering ceramic tiles, marble, and plastic decorations, acting as a bonding agent while reducing the amount of cement required. The water retention properties of HPMC ensure that the mixture does not dry too quickly, preventing cracking and improving strength upon hardening.

2. Ceramic Production: Extensively used as an adhesive in the manufacturing of ceramic products.

3. Coatings Sector: Functions as a thickening agent, dispersant, and stabilizer within the coatings industry, being soluble in both water and organic solvents. It is also effective as a paint remover.

4. Ink Production: Acts as a thickening agent, dispersant, and stabilizer in the ink industry, with solubility in water and organic solvents.

5. Plastics Industry: Employed as a mold release agent, plasticizer, and lubricant, among other uses.

6. PVC Production: Serves as a dispersant and is a key auxiliary in the suspension polymerization of PVC.

7. Additional Applications: This product finds extensive use in the leather, paper, fresh produce, and textile industries.

8. Pharmaceutical Sector: Functions as coating materials, membrane materials, rate-controlling polymers for sustained-release formulations, stabilizing agents, suspending aids, tablet binders, and enhances viscosity.